Who or what is your inspiration in business?

At 65 years young, I’m a college student, a dedicated volunteer with Catholic Charities, and a recovering addict with 22 years of sobriety. My inspiration comes from my past experiences and the desire to build something meaningful for the future. I was an entrepreneur in a different field before, managing properties as a landlord for over seven years. Now, I’m channeling my energy into a new direction: launching a food business and eventually creating my own barbecue sauce to market.

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated by helping others. My journey, including experiences like sleeping on the streets, reminds me that God didn’t bring me this far just to focus on myself. My purpose is to give back—teaching and mentoring young people, equipping them with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. Watching others grow and thrive keeps me going, and I find joy in seeing the positive ripple effects of my efforts.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would use the $25,000 to buy a food truck, which would be the cornerstone of my business. With the profits, my ultimate goal is to purchase a farm. On this farm, I’d teach kids how to grow their own food and learn about sustainability. I already teach gardening in my community, and this would be an expansion of that mission—empowering young people to connect with natural resources and build skills for a self-sufficient future.